If you are the parent of a child with autism (or any other disability) you are in my thoughts and prayers. We have so much stress and pressure in trying to raise our children. I don’t know what you are going through, but I know you are going through something. We have the same problems that everyone else has (bills, sitters, romance, etc) but problems in our life is multiplied by the challenges we have with our children.
You are my Heroes. When I was trying to adjust to PJ’s autism, I joined many parent groups that helped me to adjust. I learned from these parents who were committed and dedicated to making life better for their children. Many advances in awareness, social acceptance and better services were made because of parents tirelessly working to achieve them. We wanted improvement so much that we had to do it ourselves, and still are.
If you and your child are not a success story, (as PJ and I are not) I hope that you will remember to savor your child’s small successes. I hope that you will not compare your child to other children his or her age who do not have a handicapping condition. I hope that you find support and respite and someone who understands what you are going through. Pervis and I started the PJ Foundation for this reason.
When I was down, I could often find my spoonful of comfort in the Bible. One of my favorite scriptures that gave me a lot of comfort became the Guiding Principle for the PJ Foundation: “As you have done it unto the least of my brethren, ye have done it unto me”. (Matthew 25:10)
When I was weak and at the end of my rope, a scripture that gave me comfort was Phillippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Take your burdens to the Lord and leave them there was my method for making it through the day. I didn’t always remember to do this but when I did, my day was much better. When we are in the dark, God will turn on lights for us. We might not get all the light that we want because it may be one light at a time.
I wish I could do something for all of you. All I could do was write you a poem.
“Special” Special Parent
Most “special” of the special ones / You were my Guiding Light / When it was cold and it was dark / and life was black as night.
When I was cold and I was scared / and lived in lonely fear / You showed me just what I could do/ and helped me dry my tears.
Though you could not cure my son / You helped me to “cure” me. / You turned on lights to chase the dark / so I could plainly see.
Now, I know that you get weary / and I know that you get worn / But you’ve earned your Star in Heaven / since the day your child was born.
I know you’ve had some sleepless nights / and you could use some rest / But love is shining through the worn spots / I pray that you be blessed.
Though I’d like to give you medals / to show you that I care / All I can do is give you Love / and remember you in prayer.
Until next time : May the Presence of God watch over you. May the Power of God protect you. May the Love of God enfold you.
Claudreen Jackson